From Wednesday 1st February 2012 it will be illegal for cigarettes to be sold from vending machines in Wales. From that date it should no longer be possible to buy cigarettes from a machine. The Welsh Government has passed this law in response to evidence that many children who smoke regularly get their cigarettes from vending machines.
There are 100,000 deaths every year in the UK from smoking related causes and two thirds of smokers started smoking whilst they were under 18. Restricting access to tobacco and protecting young people is fundamental to the national priority to reduce smoking prevalence, especially among young people who are most at risk.
Any business that has a vending machine on their premises should ensure that it can no longer be use by the public and also ensure that any advertisements for cigarettes on the machine are removed or permanently covered up. Businesses are encouraged to speak to vending machine operators to arrange for the removal of the machine.
If members of the public are aware of machines still in use after the beginning of February Trading Standards would encourage them to report this to Consumer Direct Wales 08454 040506.
If any businesses wish to seek further information they can contact Trading Standards in Wrexham on 01978 292045
Do you want to quit smoking, but are not sure where to start or when to do it? Why not make No Smoking Day on Wednesday March 14th your day to quit by contacting Wrexham County Borough Council for a free self help quit kit? Contact 01978 297063 or email [email protected]
